This reflection based on the article entitled “On Becoming Peace-Builders” by Ms. Alicia Maunahan-

Javier of Life Today: A Cultural Magazine with a Catholic Orientation, December Issue 2009.

ISSN 0116-6441.

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4 Mary Christelle G. Aquitnia January 12, 2010

2EMT SCL 3 – Prof. Claudita Yaranon

“Let Peace Begin with Me”

“Peace be with you.” A blessing that we bestow in each of us. It is “peace” that is a gift from God which simply means happiness. It is a possession of good things, a work of justice and basically, the product of charity and love to all through understanding. There are three kinds of peace when we give to a person: peace of mind, peace of heart, and peace with everyone. No doubt, problem is part of our life. There cannot be a person without worries and trials. Peace of mind let trust in God be our stand in our difficulties. Peace of heart let our emptiness soothe through God’s love and that we may thirst for materialism and greed. This is the ultimate source of happiness. If we want peace, love. Peace with everyone invites us to face things and learn to live with others, adjusting, understanding and loving these persons around us no matter what the circumstances may be. As Jesus said to his disciple, “Love one another as I have loved you.”

Humanity longs for peace. From war to little misunderstanding, we pray that peace may bring acceptance and friendship, forgiveness and understanding, that in it shall begin in each one of us. You must realize that in every circumstance that you face. “Peace of mind” reveals trust in God and to the people around us. In bearing the problems in life, you must see that there are people who will stand in your side to guide your path. Just like the foot prints in the sand, God does give us trials that we can overcome them. “Peace of heart” let us be at ease with material things. Be contented of what you have. God granted us skills and talents so you can help other people. God gave them for you to nurture these gifts and not be wasted. There is no need to envy and be greedy, but you must thirst for greatness and happiness for the goodness sake. Lastly, “Peace with others” teach us to be grateful to the gift of person who has always been with us since we were born. Our family and friends, our teachers and professors, our companion and co-worker, and the whole community, learn to adjust, and be patient to understand the situation of others. This is the love that Jesus taught us greater than loving oneself alone.

Take you first step: “Let peace begin with me.” Pray that you may be in silent because God speaks when you’re in silence. Meditate and think deeply what you have done for those past days. Renew what you must change and may it be your starting line to your family, friends and your community. Invite your parents and relative, or friends to have bonding moments to strengthen your relationship with them. Be resourceful and prioritize first what is needed from what is not. Organize yourself from your daily duties and responsibilities. This will help you understand more about life and fellowship. Be an active participant in your community, may it be in your barangay or church. Having a goal in life will energize and motivate you to do more for God’s glory. Lastly, be a epitome of good things, set example for others for them to realize and rethink the true path that they should take. So let peace reign in everyone, forever and ever.